Ten years ago in Super Bowl XXXIV, McNair guided the Titans on a last minute drive that ended a yard shot. The most famous play in that game — behind Kevin Dyson being stopped a yard short – came when the late Titans quarterback somehow escaped the grasp of Carter, a defensive end with the St. Louis Rams.

Many recall it as the signature moment of McNair’s career, as his toughness and perseverance were on full display. McNair fought off Carter to keep the play alive, then threw downfield as the Titans kept the drive alive.

The Rams ended up winning the game, and Carter got a Super Bowl ring. But the memory of McNair’s death comes to his mind every time highlights are shown.

“I always think about him when I watch that play. I can’t think of the Super Bowl because in the back of my mind that painful afterthought is, ‘Steve’s not here,’ ’’ said Carter, in town for Super Bowl XLIV festivities. “I think about that all the time when I think about the game, unfortunately.’’

Carter ended up signing with the Titans the following offseason, and became friends with McNair. He was one of his pallbearers last July, a few days after McNair was shot and killed. Carter remembers McNair as one of the greatest competitors he ever played with.

“Steve was the strongest man I ever knew, literally,’’ Carter said. “He was strong in stature but he was even stronger in spirit. As far as being a leader of men, he was a rock. The guy was amazing. I remember when I signed with Tennessee I thought, ‘I’m going to play with Steve McNair.’ I knew we had just won a Super Bowl but knowing I was going to play with him, I knew I had to be up to the task.’’